The Weekend in Photos: Very Special Blossoms

IF OGLING, adoration and the popping of flashbulbs could feed plants, it's possible that the 3,000 cherry trees that line the Tidal Basin could rise up and subjugate us all — especially after the burst of attention they received this weekend.

The area surrounding the Jefferson Memorial sprouted a bright, lively pink on Saturday and Sunday, and many a bright, lively tourist was there to enjoy it. Locals were peppered throughout the crowd, too, including Waldorf resident Damishia Foster, who told The Post's Sylvia Moreno that she came into town with her two sons and her goddaughter to make some memories.

"Here we are in D.C., in the middle of everything. . . . Everyone is talking to everyone, just fellowshiping," she said. "I came because I wanted to create a moment, a memory for my children. I want to start a tradition."

The blossoms were predicted to reach their full bloom between March 27 and April 3, and are expected to last about 10 days after that. Moreno reports that the 16-day National Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs until April 13, brings about a million visitors to the District each year and pumps $184 million worth of revenue into the area.

Pop a little pink into this dreary Monday with the photos below. If you want more, check out washingtonpost.com's Cherry Blossom Festival special report.

An artist paints a view of the Jefferson Memorial surrounded by blooming cherry trees. Photo by Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images

A close-up look at what all the fuss is about. Look, no crowds! Photo by James M. Thresher/The Washington Post

» "A Rite of Spring That Flowers for All" [WaPo]

Photos by James M. Thresher/The Washington Post and Saul Loeb/AFP/Getty Images